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career paths - uw geography alumni and friends

GIS Specialist - Jason Karr

1. Description of current work.

I work on strategic decision support efforts for Starbucks' North American strategy. I work with databases and maps, maintain cartographic standards and provide technical support for my team. I am learning the business uses of GIS and get to use good equipment.

2. What drew you into geography?

I have always been drawn to visual perspectives. I looked at atlases and explored. Then I studied video and graphic design before studying physical geography at Seattle Central Community College and later coming to UW.

3. Describe your education in geography.

I studied physical geography and environmental courses first. Then I improved my technical/scientific background.

4. Are you currently in a job where you find your training in geography is useful?

GIS and cartography. But it helps to understand geography as well as the software.

5. How did your undergraduate studies prepare you for the workplace and/or graduate school?

My most useful tools are the Internet, HTML, ESRI tools, web-based map implementation and economic geography.

6. Did you work as an intern while in college?

Was it a valuable experience you would recommend to others? Yes, three: one with Lizard Tech software design; one with the UW map library; and one with Seattle Utilities. It can give you exposure to work with larger companies so you can see if you like it and can help you find a job.

7. How did you find out about your current position?

Through the Geography Department Job Board.

8. Are you working with other geographers in your organization?

One other who is an economic/social geographer.

9. If there is potential for professional growth with your current employer, what kind of a career path is it?

GIS Specialist; intermediate position; Group Leader.

10. What advice would you give to early undergraduates considering a major in geography?

Learn what you will need to know to get a job

11. What advice would you give to college geography majors about what courses to take or which skills to get before they graduate?

Learn programming.

12. What advice would you give to college seniors about their prospects with a geography degree in hand?

If you are a generalist, look in the municipalities. If you are a specialist, look in business. GIS and economic geography make a good integrated package.

13. Please describe your career path up to this point.

3 internships and then an internship position at Starbucks that led to full-time employment here.

14. What do you anticipate that your career path will be in the next 10 years or more?

I want to do international work. I want to live abroad and analyze data there.

15. What do you wish someone had told you when you were in college?

Ask yourself: "Putting current passions aside, how much money do you need to be happy?" Then get the education to help you get the work that will allow you to be happy.

Jason is willing to answer other occasional questions as they come up. If you have questions, please ask in the Geography Advising Office (415 Smith) for his contact information.

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Geographers:

getting jobs
planning careers
at work